1. random or opportunistic shots fired at someone or something
Usage: often used in military or hunting contexts
2. critical remarks or attacks made without careful consideration
Usage: informal; figurative use

Examples

• The sniper took potshots at the enemy patrol from his hidden position.
• Hunters were taking potshots at deer from the road.
• The journalist took potshots at the mayor’s policies without offering alternatives.
• Stop taking potshots at my work and give me some useful feedback.
• The rebels fired potshots at the convoy as it passed through the valley.
• Critics took potshots at the new movie before it was even released.
• The soldiers avoided the open field where enemies might take potshots at them.